Corduroy shredding, groomer bombing, railroad tracks... whatever you want to call it, the recent stretch of sunny weather has been perfect for carving arcing turns on-piste. With more sunny days to come, we've partnered with OpenSnow so we always know the right equipment to bring to make the most of whatever sort of day it is on the mountain. While the fleeting beauty of a powder day is always something worth celebrating, we've rounded up a few of our favorite "old-reliable" runs that make every day on Vail mountain feel special.
Cloud 9
Try not to get too distracted by the incredible views off of this Blue Sky Basin trail. This wide-open run is a great way to experience the back side of the mountain when the snow is better suited to on-piste action. With plenty of twists, rollers, and natural features to keep you excited, you'll find yourself lapping this one on repeat. Bonus: Pack some burger patties and fixings to grill at the community gas grills at Belle's Camp for a true local experience with a million dollar view.
North Star
If you're looking for something a bit steeper, head to North Star of of Chair 11 Northwoods Express. This gorgeous run alternates high-incline faces with more mellow terrain and plenty of natural features on the side to take advantage of. North Star is groomed most days, but not every day. If you hit an ungroomed day, check Gandy Dancer one run over which is groomed less often, but always a treat when there's corduroy.
Lodgepole
This frontside classic is a favorite for local skiers and riders who try to send "Lodgepole Gap" off of the first roller on this easygoing intermediate run. No matter your skill level, intermediates and above can all have a blast on this exciting run off of Avanti Express.
Riva Ridge
This is the longest run on the resort, clocking in at 4 miles long, and alternating between intermediate and expert ratings. While not all sections are groomed every day, the most difficult parts are easily bypassed by the catwalks intersecting the trail at strategic points. We love that this run offers so much non-stop skiing before you have to get on a lift. This run is best avoided at the end of the day when it becomes a popular way to commute to the bottom, and the run's most difficult pitch, "Tourist Trap", lives up to it's name all too well on busier days.
Lost Boy
Just because a run is rated green doesn't mean it's boring! This trail is named for a 14 year old boy who got lost in Game Creek Bowl before it was developed, and spent the night in an ice cave before being rescued unscathed the next day. This trail is a favorite for everyone from beginners looking for an adventure into their first bowl, to seasoned local veterans who want to lay down GS-Style turns on the low-angle terrain that still manages to be exciting.
What are your favorite runs when the sun has been shining a few days in a row? Did we miss any favorites? Let us know in the comments.
